I just came across this hilarious Boondocks clip about the true history of Christmas. I suppose it's really more for the AfterElton.com crowd (and yes, I shared the joy), but it's also for anyone who needs a break from all the holiday hoo-ha.

The video is after the jump. … continue reading

Earlier today, the AfterElton.com blog featured some news about the song "Fairytale of New York," a collaboration between Kirsty MacColl and the Pogues.

The song is a Christmas tradition in Britain, but this year, BBC Radio 1 decided to play an edited version. Here's the offending lyric: "You scumbag, you maggot/You cheap lousy faggot/Happy Christmas your arse/I pray God it's our last." BBC 1 muted the word faggot, as well the word slut elsewhere in the song. You can listen to the song here, read the lyrics here and read Lyle Masaki's post for more context. The song is essentially a battle of insults between an unhappy couple.

Fans (and MacColl's mother) immediately cried censorship and "political correctness," and the BBC soon responded. In a statement, Radio 1 controller Andy Parfitt said, "After careful consideration, I have decided that the decision to edit the Pogues song was wrong." The unedited version (which was still airing on Radio 2) is now back on Radio 1. … continue reading

Are George and Mary Bailey perennial guests at your holiday celebration?

Or is Ralphie Parker's quest for a Red Ryder BB gun a more relevant Christmas story?

That's the question posed by Time last week. In a 2006 poll, A Christmas Story was the favorite holiday movie among ages 18–41, while the older demographic picked It's a Wonderful Life or Miracle on 34th Street. Perhaps, speculates the article, Generations X and Y find Ralphie's memories a bit closer to their own. … continue reading